I like and can relate to the first part of this article a lot, but the solution ("Outsmarting the Status Game") just seems to be doing more of the same. Doesn't feel like a real solution. I think the real solution is to drop out of the status game and not play at all. Forget what the others think. I've come to realize that all I really care about is what I think of myself, and what my wife and kids think of me.

Another goal, and the ultimate root of all goals, is Peace of Mind. This is the one and only game to play - status is just a mirage when what the person is really trying to get is Peace of Mind. I think this is the most important thing in life and I try to teach my kids this.